Fundraising through the United Way

I was born with a Chiari malformation. Throughout my life, I have dealt with many medical problems, ranging from allergies and chronic infections to more recent and serious problems. To date, I suffer with about 90% of symptoms. Because of its degenerative nature, not only do I have Chiari, but I also have spinal canal stenosis, kyphosis, obstructive sleep apnea, COPD, and degenerative disc disease, to name a few, so far. Unfortunately, it was only until young adulthood that I was accurately diagnosed with Chiari malformation. In turn, I may be suffering from latter illnesses that may have been prevented, if more education were available. When I was diagnosed, I was a single mother attending college while casually dating my current boyfriend, Matthew McHenry. Ten years ago, we really had no idea what kind of beast we were facing. Chiari malformation, and its related disorder, syringomyelia, could be a very debilitating illness in which permanent damage occurs. Because of their location near the hindbrain, too often enough, symptoms could be disabling. Unfortunately for myself and people who are in my situation, some symptoms will be permanent.

On August 18, 2009, Matthew McHenry, as an employee representative to UPS, invited Dorothy Poppe from the Chiari & Syringomyelia Foundation to present UPS with a United Way Fundraiser. Thanks to the efforts of Dorothy Poppe and the love of my life, Matt, UPS definitely came through to not only fund research, but to be made aware of these disabling conditions. They were willing to sacrifice time out of their very intense and hectic workday, and for that alone I commend them. But for designating the CSF as their United Way contribution I consider them to be my heroes. I personally can not thank them enough for all they did for this fundraiser. The guys at UPS are wonderful!

With support like this, maybe one day, we will live to see pain free days!

-Sabrina Stabile

Thanks to Sabrina and Matthew and to the UPS employees for donating $6,500 and for their support.